After 33 years of providing resources, devices and training for self-sufficiency, Signal Centers’ Assistive Technology Services is beginning a new chapter with Deardra McGee as director.
McGee says she was attracted to the job because it places her “in the trenches, developing relationships for the betterment of the community.”
“I love serving a population that might not have access to services, and those who might need help negotiating a recent disability,” McGee says.
McGee previously managed a tutoring program at the United Way of Greater Chattanooga. Before that position, she paired children with mentors at Big Brothers Big Sisters. Both of these roles followed McGee’s retirement from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in 2019, where she readied youth for college and prepared college students for life after graduation. She served at UTC for 28 years.
McGee says she wanted to continue to educate and engage the community after her stint at the United Way, but she was ready for a new challenge. Enter Assistive Technology Services.
As one of two organizations to provide technology services through the Tennessee Technology Access Program, as well as enable technology through the Department of Aging and Disability in Tennessee, the program covers a 34-county area and focuses on providing tailored solutions.
The program also serves managed care organizations, such as United Healthcare, BlueCare and WellPoint. These services come in the form of technology trainings, demonstrations and loans, and home and workplace adaptations.
“Deardra brings renewed energy to this pivotal program, which improves the quality of life for those with a disability,” says Carolyn Boyd, chief programs officer at Signal Centers. “Under her direction, Assistive Technology Services will continue to eliminate barriers and help clients navigate a tech-driven world as independently as possible.”
McGee’s first initiative was White Cane Awareness Day Oct. 15 at Carver Community Center in Chattanooga. The event aimed to bring the community together to celebrate the independence of those with low to no vision.
Spearheaded by the National Federation of the Blind, White Cane Awareness Day highlights the importance of an essential tool. The white cane is an extension of a person’s arm that allows for quick assessment of the world and the ability to move freely and safely, notes Signal Centers in a news release about McGee’s new appointment.
Attendees found assistive technology demonstrations, smartphone assistance, accessible board and card games and white cane mini clinics.
As a self-described “forward thinker,” McGee says she’s looking forward to tapping into new areas of expansion for Assistive Technology Services. She also aims to increase the number of community partnerships and clients served.
“I want Assistive Technology Services to be a hustling, bustling building in Chattanooga, and readily accessible in our other counties,” says McGee.